Whether you downloaded an asset, exported from another program, or are bringing in a model for 3D printing, importing into Blender is straightforward. The main things to get right are the format and the scale.
Step 1: Use File > Import
- Go to File > Import.
- Choose the format that matches your file:
- FBX or glTF 2.0: best for models with materials, textures or rigs (common for games and animation).
- OBJ: simple and universal for static models.
- STL: for 3D printing, carries the shape only.
- Browse to your file and click Import.
Your model appears in the scene, usually at the 3D cursor.
Step 2: Fix the scale
The most common import surprise is a model that is enormous or microscopic, because programs disagree on units. To fix it:
- Press N to open the sidebar and check the object’s Dimensions.
- Press S to scale it to a reasonable size, then Ctrl + A > Scale to apply the new scale cleanly.
Some importers also have a scale field in the import options, so you can set it before confirming.
Step 3: Fix rotation if needed
Models sometimes come in lying on their side, because some apps treat a different axis as “up.” If yours is rotated, either fix it with R, or use the Forward and Up axis options in the import dialog for FBX and OBJ.
Step 4: Check materials
FBX and glTF usually bring their materials with them. OBJ needs its companion .mtl file in the same folder. If a model imports grey, you may need to reassign its materials or textures.
Keep going
Importing assets is a normal part of real projects. Our Blender Basics course covers working with objects, materials and scenes, and you can start with the free lessons.